As the citrus season continues, different varieties of citrus fruit are appearing at local markets every month.
An unseasonably hot summer has resulted in a solid crop of Navels and Cara cara oranges. Although fruit size appears to be smaller than last year, crop quality and overall volume are both expected to be higher this season. Cara cara oranges, which are a great choice for anyone sensitive to acidity, will remain available through the spring, while seedless Navels can be found on market shelves until the early summer.
In season from November through May, blood oranges are wintertime staples in California. They thrive quite well during colder weather, with a recent study at the University of Florida concluding that a blood orange’s anthocyanin, phenolic content, sugar content, firmness, and antioxidant levels can all be enhanced by storing the fruit between 43 and 46 degrees.
December also marks the beginning of tangelo season, with the tangerine-grapefruit hybrid typically remaining available through April. California grapefruits can also be found at local markets through April, along with Murcott mandarins.
If you’re a citrus grower, remember that our FGS supply centers are fully stocked with the tools you need for a safe, efficient harvest. We have redesigned picking bags (featuring a wider strap with extra foam padding), clippers, gloves, orchard ladders, loppers, and pruners. Whether you’re looking to clip juicy oranges from your trees, remove weak branches, or protect your fruit trees from the freezing temperatures that loom ahead, we have the right tools for you.
In the meantime, happy eating!
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2024-12-16 04:00:04
Karl Hoffman is a distinguished agriculturalist with over four decades of experience in sustainable farming practices. He holds a Ph.D. in Agronomy from Cornell University and has made significant contributions as a professor at Iowa State University. Hoffman’s groundbreaking research on integrated pest management and soil health has revolutionized modern agriculture. As a respected farm journalist, his column “Field Notes with Karl Hoffman” and his blog “The Modern Farmer” provide insightful, practical advice to a global audience. Hoffman’s work with the USDA and the United Nations FAO has enhanced food security worldwide. His awards include the USDA’s Distinguished Service Award and the World Food Prize, reflecting his profound impact on agriculture and sustainability.